The American University of Beirut (AUB) held its student elections for the 2026–27 academic year on Friday, October 16, with 255 candidates seeking to represent their peers. This year’s elections combined campus campaigning and debate with initiatives supporting student leadership and civic engagement.
A total of 57 candidates ran for the University Student Faculty Committee (USFC), while 198 contested positions on the Student Representative Committees (SRCs). The overall number of candidates rose from 233 in the previous year, reflecting continued student interest in taking an active role in university affairs.
“We are very proud of our students at the American University of Beirut for their conduct and their participation in this year’s student elections. A record number of students registered and voted, and the result was the election of people with all different viewpoints and from all different backgrounds. The university remains one of those rare institutions globally where free speech and a diversity of opinion can both flourish peacefully and thoughtfully. Long may that continue,” said Dr. Fadlo Khuri, AUB president.
“Our students regularly engage in thoughtful and critical debate,” said AUB Dean of Student Affairs Nayla Al-Akl. She emphasized how these exchanges encourage students to examine timely issues, challenge the status quo, and think critically, “all of which are key for building leadership skills and advancing citizenship.”
Connecting student elections with civic engagement, the Department of Political Studies and Public Administration (PSPA) and the PSPA Society organized “Citizenship Beyond the Classroom.” Through testimonials, campaign tips, and guidance on student representation, the workshop linked participation in campus elections with broader responsibilities as engaged citizens.
On-campus campaigning took place from October 12 to 14, giving candidates the opportunity to present their platforms and engage with fellow students. Outlook, AUB’s student publication, organized the USFC debate on Wednesday, October 14, providing a forum for candidates to discuss their priorities and address student concerns. A mandated silence period followed ahead of Election Day.
“Throughout the election period, students showed remarkable maturity, thoughtful engagement in nuanced discussions, and leadership skills of the highest caliber,” said Al-Akl.
Voting took place online from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on October 16, with results announced at 6:00 pm that evening.
Support for student leadership will continue beyond Election Day through AUB’s first orientation for newly elected USFC members, scheduled for Wednesday, October 21. Taking place before the committee’s first official meeting, the orientation will help prepare newly elected members for their roles and responsibilities. USFC cabinet elections are scheduled for Wednesday, October 28.
For more information on the elections, please visit the AUB Student Elections page.
About AUB
Founded in 1866, the American University of Beirut bases its educational philosophy, standards, and practices on the American liberal arts model of higher education. A teaching-centered research university, AUB has more than 800 full-time faculty members and a student body of over 9,700 students. AUB currently offers more than 140 programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, MD, and PhD degrees. It provides medical education and training to students from throughout the region at its Medical Center, which includes a full-service 365-bed hospital.
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